Did Hamas Provide a Positive Response to the Gaza Ceasefire Proposal?

Gaza, July 5 (NationPress) Hamas announced in a statement that it has provided a "favorable" response to mediators regarding a ceasefire proposal for Gaza.

"Hamas has finalized its discussions with Palestinian factions and forces concerning the recent proposal aimed at halting the aggression against our people in Gaza. The movement has conveyed its response to the mediators, which is favorable," the statement indicated.

"The movement is fully prepared to immediately engage in negotiations about the implementation mechanisms of this framework," it continued.

In the meantime, a source acquainted with the situation informed Xinhua that "the response offered by Hamas generally aligns with the latest version of the proposal mediated by Qatar and Egypt, referred to as the modified (U.S. Special Envoy to the Middle East Steve) Witkoff plan."

According to the source, a Hamas member close to the leadership stated that Hamas suggested minor amendments to the existing draft but did not significantly stray from the fundamental components of the mediation framework, as reported by Xinhua news agency.

On the topic of humanitarian assistance, the source highlighted that Hamas stressed that "aid must be supplied in adequate amounts to ensure the uninterrupted functioning of bakeries, hospitals, and vital services."

"Hamas insists that humanitarian aid should be facilitated through neutral and internationally recognized organizations, including the United Nations, the Red Crescent, and other pertinent agencies," the source added.

Regarding the withdrawal of Israeli forces, the source mentioned that "Hamas is not opposed to slight adjustments to the proposed withdrawal to the March 2 lines, provided that details are clarified through indirect negotiations."

"Hamas is open to discussing the technical aspects of the withdrawal mechanism, as long as the overall framework remains unchanged," the source stated.

Regarding the duration and continuity of negotiations, the source clarified that "Hamas is not demanding a specific 30- or 60-day extension for discussions."

"Instead, the movement believes that negotiations must persist beyond the 60-day period until a mutual and comprehensive agreement is achieved," the source commented.

The source characterized the overall tone of the response as "positive" and noted that it "could help bridge the gaps between the negotiating parties."

"Hamas' current stance indicates a level of flexibility and a willingness to engage seriously through mediators," the source added.